Felipe Anderson is deeply disappointed after Lazio crashed out of the Europa League against Feyenoord, insisting they ‘never underestimated the group.’
The Biancocelesti needed only a point in Rotterdam to secure their passage to the Europa League Round of 16, and a win would’ve let them top the group, but instead they were beaten 1-0 by a Santiago Gimenez strike.
“We went out there to win and control the game with our style of football, having a huge scoring opportunity in the first half,” Felipe Anderson told Sky Sport Italia.
“I missed two chances and I feel very bad about that. We were concentrated, but were unable to get the result. We are all experienced players, football is beautiful because it is so unpredictable, but it’s disappointing that we didn’t take our chances.”
Feyenoord ended up winning the group ahead of Midtjylland, with Lazio in third place and Sturm Graz fourth.
However, they all had eight points after six rounds, so the order was decided by head-to-head records and goal difference.
“We never underestimated the group, the coach always tells us that we need determination and grit in every game, but it was a stronger group than expected.”
Now Lazio drop down into the Conference League, where they go into a play-off to reach the Round of 16.
“We wear the Lazio jersey and must give our all in any competition we participate in.”
The Biancocelesti need to get right back on their feet immediately, because on Sunday in Serie A there’s the Derby della Capitale against Roma, which also happens to be a head-to-head for fourth place.
“It is a game that the fans and the whole city really cares about, and so do we who step onto the pitch and play. It’s going to be a battle and we must give our all.”
Shame, but in conference league there ll be easier for them, because probably would been dropped immediatly, now they can stay in europe for long